Fake Diogo Jota Foundation Website Makes £50,000 Before Closure

A website pretending to represent the Diogo Jota Foundation has been shut down after collecting nearly £50,000 in donations.

The platform faced allegations of having no connection to the late Liverpool forward’s family or the club.

Jota, the Portuguese international, and his brother tragically died in a car accident in July, only days after his wedding to his long-time partner, Rute Cardoso. Just three days later, a domain called diogojotafoundation.org appeared online, appealing for funds. By August 21, it claimed to have raised £47,715.

Investigations revealed that neither Liverpool FC nor Jota’s family had ties to the foundation. According to The Telegraph, the club confirmed that both it and the family were unaware of its existence. The UK Charity Commission also stated no registration had been made for such an organisation.

The site displayed the logos of Liverpool FC, UNICEF, Allianz, and the Portuguese Platform of Development NGOs, but at least three denied any partnership. By August 22, the site was deactivated.

Liverpool has since confirmed that an official tribute will be organised through the LFC Foundation.

In July, the club revealed plans to launch a grassroots football programme bearing his name. Fans were also encouraged to honour the late striker by purchasing official jerseys with “Diogo J. 20” printed on the back, with all profits going directly to the foundation.

The removal of the fake website highlights the dangers of online scams exploiting grief and high-profile tragedies. Supporters are urged to channel their tributes and donations through Liverpool FC’s official initiatives to ensure Jota’s legacy is honoured authentically and respectfully.